Description
The MERLIN Rectifier Monitor is a small, compact unit housed within the rectifier cabinet. It checks the rectifier performance and communicates (via either an internal or external antenna) using the GSM network. All data is automatically transmitted in a management report to the system HQ where it is accessed online using Abriox’s MERLIN iCPSM software.
MERLIN Rectifier Monitors will carry out the functional checks of rectifier output (voltage and current) required in order to comply with regulatory guidelines. They will quickly repay their capital cost when compared to monthly manual checks.
MERLIN’s will report immediately if an output alarm threshold is exceeded; they will also check that the rectifier remains powered by its external electrical supply. If the power fails, an alarm is transmitted and the MERLIN’s internal batteries take over monitoring for up to 2 years.
A key feature of the Abriox MERLIN system is cellular telephone control. Once installed, monitors are easily and quickly set up using a cellular telephone. Further configuration (e.g. alarm levels) can be programmed and realtime, on-demand readings can be taken of all monitored parameters. In addition, synchronized interruption cycles can be started and stopped directly from a cellular telephone.
iCPSM web software provides access from any internet-enabled PC to a password-protected CP database that is unique to each customer. Users can configure and control MERLIN monitors, view rectifier CP data in graphical and numerical formats or export data for further analysis and archiving.
Benefits
Features
GSM (SMS) Communications |
Batteyry Backup |
Remote control of rectifier output from cellphone or software – including synchronized interruption for CIPS/DCVG surveys with user-settable cycle time. |
2 - 3 year operation in the event of a power failure. |
User Alerts |
Synchronized Interruption |
User-settable alarm thresholds for all monitored channels - will pick up rectifier problems such as a low output or a blown fuse. | Remote control of rectifier output from cellphone or software – including user-settable cycle times for CIPS and DCVG surveys.. |
Electrical Supply Monitoring |
Health and Safety |
Alarm generated if power supply fails – so that protection can quickly be restored to the pipeline (MERLIN backup batteries last for 2 years). | No risk assessments or lone worker issues at hazardous sites. Protects technicians from exposure to voltages and currents. |
On Demand Readings |
Custom Reports |
Real-time readings can be requested via software and/or from a cellphone in the field. | Data automatically archived and presented in custom report formats or exported to other standard applications. |
Environmental | Cost Reduction |
Eliminates the impact of emissions from survey vehicles, saves thousands of driving miles per month, zero carbon footprint. | Achieves rapid financial payback on the huge cost of taking frequent manual measurements |
GPS Synchronization |
Weight |
An optional on-board GPS module enables precise time synchronization of all MERLIN monitors on a pipeline. It also provides a link to mapping software for accurate positioning | 450g (1lb) |
Daily or Weekly Reports |
Lightning Protection |
Custom reporting periods allow daily or weekly reporting. |
The MERLIN Transformer Rectifier Monitor is IP65 rated. Offering protection against falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing and hose-directed water. |
IP Rating |
Operational Remperatures |
The MERLIN Transformer Rectifier Monitor is IP65 rated. Offering protection against falling dirt, rain, sleet, snow, windblown dust, splashing and hose-directed water. |
-40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F). 100% condensing humidity. |
Testing performed on the new MERLIN design showed that:
Technical Specification
The MERLIN Transformer Rectifier Monitor is a compact unit designed to monitor and report the operation of a rectifier. Its key features are:
Physical Dimensions |
5” x 3.5” x 2” |
Weight |
1lb |
IP Rating |
IP65 |
Operating Temperature |
-40°F to +185°F 100% condensing humidity |
Lightning Protection |
Surge protection on all external inputs and outputs 2,500A at 3,000V (8/20us) Additional protection using recommended arrestors |
Backup Battery |
2-year life, replaceable battery module |
Communications |
Cellular (GSM/SMS) |
Software Management |
iCPSM (web based) or CPSM (PC based) |
Inputs |
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Outputs |
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Enhanced models offer additional CP measurements (ON and OFF potentials) as well as the facility to synchronize remotely with other rectifiers on a pipeline for CIS (Close Interval Surveys) or DCVG (Direct Current Voltage Gradient) surveys.
Measurements
MERLIN rectifier monitors have been designed to carry out the functional checks of rectifier output (voltage and current) required in order to comply with regulatory guidelines. They will quickly repay their capital cost when compared to manual monthly checks.
However, MERLIN rectifier monitors ensure continuous protection of the pipeline:
• They will alert the user immediately when a power failure to the rectifier has been detected (and will also report when it has been restored). They have a built-in 2-3 year back-up battery so that they will continue to monitor rectifier output and report normally even during a prolonged power outage.
• High and low alarms can be set on the rectifier output channels. These will detect a rectifier failure independently from the electrical power supply. For example, a lightning strike may cause the rectifier fuse to blow - the power supply will still be present but the rectifier output will rapidly drop away, leaving the pipeline unprotected.
Enhanced models offer additional CP measurements (ON and OFF potentials) as well as the facility to synchronize remotely with other rectifiers on a pipeline for Close Interval or DCVG (Direct Current Voltage Gradient) survey measurements in the field.
Model |
Electrical Supply |
Rectifier Voltage |
Rectifier Current |
Rectifier 2nd Current |
ON/OFF Potential |
Remote Synch |
Pipeline Locate |
Basic |
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Premium |
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Super |
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Excel |
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Pipe-to-soil potential measurements (Premium and higher) at the rectifier require a reference cell and relay. Remote synchronization (Super and Excel) require a MERLIN solid state Interrupter.
The MERLIN Transformer Rectifier Monitor uses GSM SMS messaging to report data from the field to a central HQ. This method has several advantages:
SMS communication enables MERLIN rectifier monitors to be set up in the field, and real-time readings to be obtained, using a cellphone as well as via CPSM3/iCPSM software.
MERLIN rectifier monitors incorporate an internal GSM antenna which, in most locations, will be quite adequate. In weak signal areas, units can be equipped with an external antenna.
The MERLIN system is independent of network provider and Abriox will work with users to secure the most advantageous communication package in their country. We can usually supply our monitors with a GSM airtime package – but we can also factory fit free-issued SIMs or supply monitors for users to fit their own SIMs.